Three Bears to watch on Sunday

September 07, 2013|By Rich Campbell, Tribune reporter

Too hot: Matt Forte

Forte averaged 13.6 yards on eight touches in the third exhibition, when the Bears unveiled some of Marc Trestman's new offense. Trestman is determined to balance the Bears' run-pass ratio, and Forte should facilitate this with his quickness, good hands, cutback ability and patience. Look for the Bears to capitalize on his versatility in different areas of the formation. That should help guard Kyle Long and tackle Jordan Mills, rookies on the right side, settle into Sunday's game. Balance will create uncertainty for the Bengals' vaunted defensive line, resulting in indecision and slower play.

Too cold: D.J. Williams

Williams is a mystery entering the regular season. He missed the preseason after suffering a right calf injury July 31. As a result, he will play all of Sunday's game only if he demonstrates sufficient endurance. The upside for the 10-year veteran, though, is that coaches like his experience enough to start him over second-round rookie Jon Bostic. Williams' comfort in pass coverage gives the Bears flexibility in defending the run and pass against the Bengals' two-tight end sets. Williams needs to play well to keep Bostic from taking his starting spot.

Just right: Jay Cutler

Cutler was relaxed and optimistic during the week leading up to Sunday's start of his contract year. He has expressed faith in Trestman's system, and that's a fine starting point. How the two of them will respond to adversity is unknown. In the meantime, Cutler understands the importance of footwork as it relates to the timing and rhythm Trestman's passing game requires. He also has embraced Trestman's emphasis on efficiency and balance. That involves spreading the ball around. Don't expect perfection in Sunday's debut, but the offense's starting point should be fairly advanced.